Underpass in Everett closed to pedestrians

The underpass has been closed to vehicles for more than a year, but pedestrians have been using the tunnel to reach the short trail on Port of Everett property that leads to a small waterfront park.

The railway has been installing a chain-link fence at the underpass to keep people from crossing the tracks on port property.

BNSF public affairs director Gus Melonas said it was partly due to public safety — five people have been hit by trains this year in Washington — and partly to address noise complaints by nearby neighbors.

The crossing gate activates with bells whenever a train is in the area, even if the trains are holding position before entering the port sidings, Melonas said.

Pedestrians are still able to access the trail across the Everett Avenue overpass about three blocks to the north.